Northwestern Oklahoma State University
Acceptance rate
65.5%
2025
Peer median 85.8%
Out-of-state tuition
$11,664
In-state $5,970
Peer median $18,658
Undergraduates
1,787
Student-faculty ratio 15:1
Peer median 16 : 1
Graduation rate
18.2%
4-year; 6-year rate 27.9%
Peer median 29.5%
“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Northwestern Oklahoma State University (NWOSU) is a public university located in Alva, Oklahoma. Established in 1897, the university has a rich history and is known for its commitment to providing a high-quality education in a supportive environment. The university prides itself on its strong sense of community, where faculty and staff are dedicated to fostering personal and academic growth among students. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1, NWOSU ensures that students receive personalized attention and mentorship, enhancing their overall educational experience.
The university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs across several disciplines, including education, business, and the arts and sciences. NWOSU is particularly noted for its strong emphasis on teacher education, making it a popular choice for aspiring educators. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, and recreational spaces, which support both academic and extracurricular activities. The university also boasts a vibrant campus life, with numerous student organizations, athletic teams, and cultural events that enrich the student experience. With a commitment to excellence and innovation, Northwestern Oklahoma State University continues to prepare its graduates for successful careers and active citizenship in their communities.
Analysis of Key Trends at Northwestern Oklahoma State University
Northwestern Oklahoma State University has displayed notable trends in tuition costs, student enrollment, graduation rates, and retention rates over the years.
Firstly, tuition for in-state undergraduate students has increased from approximately $5,642 in 2014 to $7,883 in 2021 before stabilizing at $5,970 in 2023. This fluctuation in tuition fees reflects a broader trend in higher education where institutions are often compelled to raise tuition to meet operational costs, although the recent drop may indicate efforts to make education more accessible. Conversely, out-of-state tuition has consistently risen, reaching $15,001 in 2021, which could deter potential out-of-state students, impacting overall enrollment.
Speaking of enrollment, the total number of undergraduate students has declined from 2,074 in 2013 to a low of 1,590 in 2022, before seeing a slight increase to 1,647 in 2023. This decline may be attributed to rising tuition costs, market competition, and changing demographics in the student population. The gradual recovery in 2023 could suggest a positive response to strategic initiatives aimed at recruitment or perhaps a broader recovery in higher education following the pandemic.
Graduation rates have shown some improvement, especially with the 150% graduation rate for undergraduates increasing from about 30.8% in 2013 to 30.8% in 2022. This is a positive indicator, as it suggests that more students are completing their degrees, albeit still at modest rates.
Retention rates have also fluctuated, reaching a peak of about 62.3% in 2013 but dropping to 56.6% in 2022, before rebounding to approximately 59.9% in 2023. The retention rates are critical as they reflect students' satisfaction and the effectiveness of support systems in place at the university.
Overall, while Northwestern Oklahoma State University faces challenges such as declining enrollment and fluctuating retention rates, there are signs of improvement in graduation rates and a recent stabilization in tuition costs, which could create a more favorable environment for current and prospective students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Remote town
- Nearest major city
- Wichita, about 100 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Tulsa International Airport (TUL), about 160 mi
- Also known as
- NWOSU, Northwestern Okla State, Northwestern Oklahoma State
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Bo Hannaford (President)
- Phone
- 5803271700
- Address
- 709 Oklahoma Blvd, Alva, OK 73717-2799
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 62.1%, women 62.9%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Data for Northwestern Oklahoma State University
The admission data for Northwestern Oklahoma State University over the years showcases notable fluctuations in both admission rates and enrollment figures. In 2009 and 2010, the university experienced a remarkable acceptance rate of 100% for both male and female applicants, leading to a higher enrollment of 379 and 255 respectively. However, as we move through the years, particularly from 2011 onwards, the acceptance rates began to decline significantly, indicating a more competitive admission process.
For instance, in 2013, the acceptance rate for males dropped to approximately 71% and further declined to about 52% in 2016, while the female acceptance rate saw similar trends. This shift could reflect broader trends in higher education where institutions are increasingly selective, possibly due to rising applicant numbers or strategic goals to enhance academic standards.
Moreover, the data reveals that the number of students denied admission fluctuated considerably, peaking at 655 denials in 2023. This spike in denials could be attributed to a combination of increased applicant numbers and the university's efforts to maintain a quality student body. The deferred admissions, especially in the earlier years, also reflect the institution's strategy to manage its enrollment effectively.
Overall, the trends in this data highlight the evolving nature of college admissions, where factors such as competition, institutional goals, and applicant demographics play critical roles. As universities adapt to changing educational landscapes, prospective students must navigate increasingly complex admission processes.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 18% submitted SAT, 100% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT scores required for admission
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Test Scores at Northwestern Oklahoma State University
Over the years, Northwestern Oklahoma State University has seen fluctuations in both the number of test scores submitted and the associated performance metrics of admitted students. The percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has varied, peaking at 20% in 2021, indicating a growing trend of applicants taking this standardized test. This increase could reflect a broader trend in higher education where students are becoming more aware of the importance of standardized testing in the admission process.
The SAT reading and math scores have shown a gradual improvement, with the 25th percentile scores (lower end) in reading and math starting around the mid-400s and climbing into the 500s by 2019. Such improvements in scores suggest that the quality of applicants may be increasing or that there is a shift in preparation strategies among prospective students.
On the ACT front, the composite scores have also seen a commendable range. In particular, the 25th percentile score has been relatively stable in the mid-20s in recent years, which aligns well with national trends where ACT scores have been a significant factor in college admissions.
The growing number of students submitting scores, combined with rising performance metrics, indicates a positive trend for Northwestern Oklahoma State University. This could enhance its reputation and attract even more qualified applicants in the future. Furthermore, as institutions increasingly adopt test-optional policies, the sustained performance in standardized testing may serve as a competitive advantage for the university.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 7 in 10
1,375 applicants in 2025, 65.5% admitted
900 admitted 475 not admitted Yield 38.7%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Adult and Continuing Education and Teaching · Master's15 (0% international)
- Counseling Psychology · Master's14 (0% international)
- Nursing Practice · Doctoral12 (0% international)
- Reading Teacher Education · Master's5 (0% international)
- Psychology, General · Master's3 (33% international)
- American/United States Studies/Civilization · Master's2 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Northwestern Oklahoma State University
The graduation data from Northwestern Oklahoma State University reveals some interesting trends and highlights within various academic disciplines. Notably, the Registered Nursing program stands out with 40 graduates, indicating a robust interest in healthcare fields, which aligns with the growing demand for healthcare professionals across the U.S. The absence of international students within this program could suggest that it primarily attracts local students, potentially due to specific state licensing requirements.
In the realm of education, multiple programs lead to a significant number of graduates, with Adult and Continuing Education and Teaching, and Counseling Psychology also showing strong participation. Interestingly, the education sector is the only field with a noticeable number of master's graduates, indicating a trend towards advanced education qualifications. This reflects a broader national trend where educators are increasingly pursuing further professional development to enhance their teaching skills and career prospects.
On the other hand, STEM fields, particularly Computer and Information Sciences, show a respectable number of graduates, with 15 students earning bachelor's degrees and 4 being international students. This suggests a healthy interest in technology and the importance of diversity in these programs.
Additionally, the data shows that certain disciplines, such as Sociology and Environmental Studies, have lower graduation numbers, indicating potential areas for growth and development within the university's offerings. These findings can provide valuable insights for strategic planning and resource allocation as the university continues to adapt to changing educational demands and workforce needs in various sectors.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $79,446 | |||
| Nursing Practice. | $79,446 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $37,239 | |||
| Counseling Psychology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Parks, Recreation, Leisure, Fitness, and Kinesiology, Other. | $44,953 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $41,587 | |||
| Accounting. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Agribusiness/Agricultural Business Operations. | $30,119 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Police Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| American/United States Studies/Civilization. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
Students
2,079 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 41:59 · Freshman retention 65.1%
- Continuing undergraduates 941
- First-year undergraduates 339
- Graduate students 292
- Transfers and others 507
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,787)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at Northwestern Oklahoma State University in 2023
In 2023, Northwestern Oklahoma State University showcases a diverse student body with a significant representation across various classifications. The undergraduate freshmen are composed of 337 students, with a gender distribution of 43% male and 57% female. This trend continues with the undergraduate juniors, who total 929, showing a slightly higher female presence at 59.4%. The undergraduate transfer students account for 164 individuals, once again reflecting a higher female ratio at 62.8%.
Graduate students, while smaller in number at 205, exhibit a notable gender disparity, with only 25.9% being male and 74.1% female. This observation may indicate a growing trend of increased female participation in graduate programs, aligning with national trends in higher education where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees.
The data also highlights the racial and ethnic diversity among students, particularly among the freshmen, where 206 students identify as White, and the remaining demographics include Asians, Latinos, African Americans, and other minorities. Although complete data on the overall racial composition of the university is not available for all classifications, the figures presented suggest a commitment to inclusivity.
Overall, the student demographics at Northwestern Oklahoma State University reflect broader trends in higher education, emphasizing gender diversity and a commitment to fostering an inclusive environment. As universities continue to adapt to the changing landscape of student needs and societal shifts, this data serves as a foundation for understanding and improving student experiences.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Northwestern Oklahoma State University
The age composition of students at Northwestern Oklahoma State University reveals a predominantly young demographic, with a significant number of students under the age of 24. Notably, over 63% of the total student population is comprised of individuals aged 18-21, which aligns with the traditional college age group. This trend is consistent with national statistics indicating that a large proportion of university students are typically in their late teens to early twenties.
Interestingly, the data shows a stark contrast in gender representation among the younger age groups. For instance, the student body below 18 years old has a higher number of females (93) compared to males (66), suggesting a growing interest in higher education among younger women. This pattern continues in the 18-19 age bracket, where there are 301 females versus 208 males. However, as students progress into slightly older age categories (22-24), the gender balance begins to shift, with males and females almost equal in numbers.
The representation of older age groups, particularly those over 30, is notably low, indicating that traditional college-aged students dominate the enrollment figures. This phenomenon reflects a broader trend within higher education, where non-traditional students, despite increasing in number, still represent a smaller fraction of the total student population.
Overall, the data suggests that Northwestern Oklahoma State University successfully attracts younger students, particularly females, while also indicating areas for potential growth in engaging older students. This demographic insight can inform future recruitment strategies and support services tailored to diverse student needs.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
28 in 2025 · 6.0% in 2016
4 in 2025 · 0.9% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Northwestern Oklahoma State University
The data from Northwestern Oklahoma State University reveals a fluctuating trend in international student enrollment over the past two decades. Starting in 2004, the percentage of international undergraduate students was relatively low at 2.28%, with only 43 students. This number gradually increased, peaking at 6.64% in 2015, when the university welcomed 130 international undergraduates. This surge could be attributed to various factors, including enhanced international recruitment efforts and the university's growing reputation.
However, the following years saw a decline, with the percentage dropping to a mere 0.62% in 2020, likely influenced by the global pandemic which severely impacted international travel and student mobility. The situation began to stabilize, as evidenced by the 2022 data, where the percentage rose to 3.14%. This resurgence hints at a recovery in international enrollment as universities adapt to the changing circumstances.
On the graduate level, the percentage of international students has remained consistently lower than that of undergraduates, with a peak of 2.59% in 2021. The overall numbers suggest that while the university has made strides in attracting international students at the undergraduate level, the graduate programs still face challenges in increasing their international presence.
In conclusion, the international student enrollment at Northwestern Oklahoma State University reflects broader trends in higher education, particularly the impact of global events on student mobility. As the world gradually recovers from the pandemic, it will be interesting to observe how these trends evolve and what strategies the university will implement to enhance its appeal to international students.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$17,384
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $11,664
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $5,970
- Room and board
- $5,720
- Graduate tuition
- $10,324
Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose -7% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 30%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$38.8M
Expenses$39.3M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Great American Conference
Great American Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 150 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 78 | 67 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 78 | 66 |
| Rodeo | 32 | 47 |
| Baseball | 65 | - |
| Cross Country | 35 | 18 |
| Basketball | 21 | 17 |
| Soccer | - | 35 |
| Golf | 19 | 11 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Volleyball | - | 22 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 139 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 51 | 61 |
| Rodeo | 34 | 37 |
| Baseball | 58 | - |
| Cross Country | 31 | 22 |
| Basketball | 18 | 20 |
| Soccer | - | 30 |
| Golf | 13 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Volleyball | - | 21 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 131 | - |
| Rodeo | 40 | 41 |
| Baseball | 67 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | - | 66 |
| Cross Country | 23 | 19 |
| Basketball | 19 | 17 |
| Soccer | - | 32 |
| Softball | - | 28 |
| Volleyball | - | 24 |
| Golf | 12 | 8 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Wichita State UniversityWichita · 98.9 mi
U.S. News #288
-
Oklahoma State University-Main CampusStillwater · 100.3 mi
U.S. News #191
-
University of Oklahoma-Norman CampusNorman · 129.2 mi
U.S. News #116
-
University of TulsaTulsa · 157.6 mi
U.S. News #148
-
Kansas State UniversityManhattan · 200.5 mi
U.S. News #156
-
University of KansasLawrence · 238.9 mi
U.S. News #148
-
University of ArkansasFayetteville · 254.6 mi
U.S. News #191
-
University of North TexasDenton · 262.2 mi
U.S. News #208
-
University of Missouri--Kansas CityKansas City · 271.1 mi
U.S. News #250
Data insights
Here are some notable institutions near Northwestern Oklahoma State University:
-
Oklahoma State University-Main Campus - Ranked 185th in the 2024 US News rankings, Oklahoma State University is a comprehensive university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus - With a rank of 124, the University of Oklahoma is known for its strong research programs and vibrant campus life.
-
University of Tulsa - This university ranks 195th and is recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and research.
-
Kansas State University - Ranked 170th, Kansas State University offers a diverse range of programs and is known for its agricultural sciences.
-
University of Arkansas - With a rank of 178, the University of Arkansas provides a comprehensive education and is known for its research initiatives.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and are prominent in the region.
Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Trends in Campus Crime at Northwestern Oklahoma State University
The crime statistics at Northwestern Oklahoma State University over the years reveal significant fluctuations in criminal activities on campus. Starting from 2013, the rate per 1000 students was relatively low at 5.65. However, there was a notable increase in 2017, where the rate peaked at 11.70. This spike suggests a potential rise in either criminal activities or reporting mechanisms, as universities often see changes in crime rates due to various factors including policy changes, increased awareness, and community engagement.
Interestingly, after 2017, the crime rate began to decline, reaching a low of 2.01 in 2022. This decrease could be indicative of effective crime prevention strategies, heightened campus security, or a cultural shift among students towards safer behaviors. Notably, the significant drop in 2021 and 2022 comes during a period when many institutions were adjusting to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which could have influenced student behavior and campus activities.
The data also highlights specific categories of crime, such as gun-related arrests and drug offenses. The overall trends indicate a need for continued vigilance and proactive measures to ensure campus safety. Understanding these patterns can help university administration in formulating policies that enhance security and promote a safe learning environment. For those interested in the methodology of calculating crime rates, further information can be found here.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Northwestern Oklahoma State University include Mike Adenuga (Nigerian billionaire businessman, Globacom founder), Kiara Fontanilla (Filipino goalkeeper) and Mike Hargrove (Former MLB first baseman and manager).
-
Mike Adenuga 1953–
Nigerian billionaire businessman, Globacom founder
-
Kiara Fontanilla 2000–
Filipino goalkeeper
-
Mike Hargrove 1949–
Former MLB first baseman and manager
-
Gaylon Nickerson 1969–
Former NBA player
-
Harold Keith 1903–1998
Newbery Medal-winning children's writer
-
Harvey H. Nininger 1887–1986
Meteoriticist and educator
-
Patrick Crayton 1979–
Former NFL wide receiver for Cowboys and Chargers
-
Lynn Scott 1977–
Former Dallas Cowboys safety
-
Curtis Frazier 1955–
Surgeon and politician
More alumni (2, by field)
Sports
-
Chip Myers 1945–1999
NFL wide receiver for the Bengals and 49ers
-
Ron Moore 1977–2015
Atlanta Falcons defensive tackle
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.